MANILA – The Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) will introduce the Philippine Handloom Weaving Center located inside the DOST Compound in Bicutan, Taguig on July 7.

The facility aims to advance weaving techniques and technology while preserving the cultural heritage and craftsmanship of local weavers.

The hub will also lead initiatives in modernizing weave design, drafting, and analysis; advancing handloom engineering technologies; and promoting intellectual property protection.

These efforts will be carried out in collaboration with 24 regional handloom weaving innovation hubs established across the country, the DOST said in a news release on Monday.

“The center will lead innovations in handloom weaving, where technology solutions will be available to improve the industry,” PTRI Director Julius Leaño told the Philippine News Agency in an interview.

He said the hub is open to weavers, enterprises, and those who are interested to learn weaving.
The training has a fee, but Leaño said interested individuals could make consultations for free or establish a partnership with the PTRI.

Interested individuals could already inquire with the PTRI about the center’s training and services.

“The Philippines is rich in traditional textiles such as Inabel, Hablon, T’nalak, etc. Based on data gathered by the PTRI, there are about 5,271 weavers and 481 weaving communities,” Leaño said.

To sustain the weaving industry, he said it is essential to have new technologies, design, and materials.

“The center could improve the competitiveness of weavers and businesses,” he added.

Meanwhile, the DOST said the center will integrate science and artistry in its operations.

The center’s key features are weaving equipment, digital weave pattern design, product testing and assurance, skills development, technology transfer, and the use of sustainable, natural fiber-blended yarns.

Through skills training and capability-building programs, the center also seeks to formalize handloom weaving as a recognized technical skill, contributing to local employment generation and strengthening the national textile manufacturing industry, the DOST said. (PNA)